Top Hydration Tips from Nuun Hydration

In celebration of National Hydration Day on June 23rd, we spoke with Director of Product Development at Nuun Hydration, Vishal Patel, to learn about the misconceptions around hydration, how much water you actually need and his top tips on how to get (and stay) hydrated.

What is “Proactive Hydration” and how does Nuun Sport fit in? What are the benefits of focusing on proactive hydration vs. just hydrating during and after a workout?

One benefit of proactive hydration is that you go into a workout state, where the body is primed to perform. It is well known that even 2% dehydration can lead to decreases in physical performance, therefore, going into the workout well hydrated can help alleviate performance declines that may come with exercise-induced dehydration. Proactive hydration can increase your body’s ability to hold onto more water and electrolytes.

Should you hydrate differently on days you work out vs. on days you rest? What about low-intensity vs. high-intensity exercise?

You should always aim to consume 2.5-3 liters of fluid (primarily water) per day, regardless of whether you are exercising or not. When you are exercising you begin to sweat – which increases your loss of fluid and electrolytes. Therefore, on those days, pay extra attention to your hydration and even more to your electrolyte intake. On those days, add in an extra Nuun SPORT before and/or after to help replenish.

How much water do you actually need? Is the 8-cups-a-day rule accurate?

2.5-3 liters is a good starting point. I’d also suggest monitoring your urine color – if it’s too clear then you’re overdoing it – if it’s pale yellow, you’re in a good spot.

What are your top three hydration tips?

1. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. During exercise, introduce a steady intake of fluid: about 2-4 ounces every 7-10 minutes (if running or cycling) or every 10-15 minutes for lower-intensity sports. If you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated.

2. Monitor your urine color. This is the easiest way to determine how hydrated you are. Pale yellow is the goal for color.

3. Don’t drink less in winter – your core temperature will still rise in cooler temperatures requiring fluids and electrolytes.

What’s the #1 thing that most people get wrong about hydration? And what’s the truth behind the misconception?

That hydration or electrolytes are only for athletes – this is simply not true. Being well hydrated is the most literal source of energy in the body. We lose water and electrolytes every day (regardless of activity) and electrolytes help absorption of water.

Why are you passionate about helping people get hydrated?

Hydration and the flow of water and electrolytes in your body are responsible for so much. From helping to improve the absorption of water and other nutrients, to providing your body the energy it needs. It truly is the easiest thing we can all do to improve health.

What’s your favorite thing about Nuun Sport?

It’s the most versatile hydration product on the market, with its low sugar content, optimized electrolyte profile and formula backed by science. It can be used before, during, and after exercise and can help increase the consumption of water (without too much sugar) which is ultimately the #1 goal in hydration.

Want more info on hydration from the experts at Nuun?

Read more on their blog here:

• Build A Hydration Habit

• Proactive Hydration 101

• 4 Surprising Ways Dehydration Affects Your Health

• 5 Signs That You Are Dehydrated – A Guide to Recognizing the Warning Signs